Steroids: pharmacology, complications, and practice delivery issues
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Published on: April 6, 2017
William Ericson-Neilsen1, Alan David Kaye2
1Department of Anesthesiology, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA.
Background:
Since their identification nearly 80 years ago, steroids have played a prominent role in the treatment of many disease states. Many of the clinical roles of steroids are related to their potent antiinflammatory and immune-modulating properties.
Methods:
This review summarizes the basic pharmacology, complications, and practice delivery issues regarding steroids.
Results:
Clinically relevant side effects of steroids are common and problematic. Side effects can occur at a wide range of doses and vary depending on the route of administration. The full spectrum of side effects can be present even in patients taking low doses.
Conclusions:
Practitioners must be aware that these drugs might exacerbate a preexisting condition or present a new medical condition. Knowledge of the clinical implications of prescribing these agents is critical.
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